Freeman was released by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday, a week after being benched in favor of rookie Mike Glennon.

Christian Ponder, the Vikings’ first-round draft pick three years ago, struggled mightily at quarterback in the first three games of the season, all losses.

Matt Cassel took over in the last game while Ponder rested his injured ribs, and he gave the struggling unit a jolt.

Associated Press

Vick injured in Eagles’ win

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick left Sunday’s game against the New York Giants with a left hamstring injury.

Vick grabbed his left hamstring while gaining 13 yards on a running play in the second quarter. He finished that series and began the Eagles’ next possession, but left after one incomplete pass. He did not return.

Associated Press

Jags’ Joeckel out rest of season

Jacksonville rookie offensive tackle Luke Joeckel will miss the rest of the season because of a broken right ankle.

Joeckel was injured in the first quarter of a 34-20 loss to the Rams on Sunday. He was taken off the field on a cart.

Joeckel got his leg rolled up by Rams defensive tackle Kendall Langford at the end of a 1-yard carry by Maurice Jones-Drew.